Asheville City Schools announced that Shambra Watkins, a veteran kindergarten educator with 29 years of experience and a Cougar Alumni Class of 1988, has been named the 2026-2027 Asheville City Schools District Teacher of the Year.
A legacy educator, Watkins’ path was paved by her parents, a teacher and an instructional assistant, who demonstrated the patience and passion required to help students succeed. Today, Watkins carries that torch, serving as a kindergarten teacher, an after-school coordinator and tutor for the FORTE 21st Century Community Learning Center, and a mentor to fellow educators.
“Teaching is not just my profession, it is a legacy I am proud to continue,” said Watkins. “Every day in the classroom, I strive to make a meaningful difference and inspire the same love of learning that my parents inspired in me.”…